2026 Runners Guide
2026 Runners Guide
The Pistol
Alcoa, Tennessee
March 14-15, 2026
Table Of Contents
Introduction
Welcome Runners,
We’re excited to welcome you and introduce ourselves — we are The Good Endurance Running team, and we’re honored to have you join us.
This year’s event brings together an incredible community of runners from all across the United States, with participants currently registered from 33 different states! Whether you’re chasing a new distance, setting a personal goal, or just soaking up the positive energy of this amazing community, we’re thrilled you’re part of it.
Our race is led by experienced directors who are passionate about bringing runners together and creating a welcoming, memorable experience for everyone. Brian & Shelley Gajus and Gordon & Arden Turner have joined forces to carry on the legacy of long-loved endurance events — guided by a simple mission: to help runners get active, share meaningful moments, build friendships, and celebrate the sport we all love.
Thank you for being here — from all of us at The Good Endurance Running team!
Packet Pickup Times & Schedule
Friday, March 13, 2026
🕔 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM - For All Distances (100M, 100K, 50K, 50M, 20M, 10M)
📍 The Cove @ Hilton Knoxville Airport, 2001 Aloca Hwy, Alcoa, TN 37701
Saturday, March 14, 2026
🕔 6:30-7:45 AM EDT - For 100M,100K, 50K
📍 Springbrook Pool Center, 636 Vose Rd. Alcoa, TN 37701
Saturday, March 14, 2026
🕔 7:00-7:45 PM EDT - For 50M
📍 Springbrook Pool Center, 636 Vose Rd. Alcoa, TN 37701
Sunday, March 15, 2026
🕔 6:30-7:30 AM EDT - For 20M & 10M
📍 Springbrook Pool Center, 636 Vose Rd. Alcoa, TN 37701
🕕 6:00 PM — Race Briefing - To discuss the course and answer any questions.
🎤 Pre-Race Speaker: Ethan Coffey (to follow briefing)
The race briefing and speaker presentation will conclude by 7:00 PM.
Little River Trading Co. – Runner Support
Little River Trading Co. has extended its hours on Thursday, March 13, until 7:30 PM to support race participants.
🟢 Special Offers:
Perfect for last-minute race-day essentials — or even a new pair of kicks!
Little River Trading Co.
2408 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy
Maryville, TN 37804
📞 Questions? Give them a call at (865) 681-4141
Reminder: If you’re able, please plan to pick up your packet early and stop by Little River Trading Co & Come back to the Hilton for the race briefing and guest speaker, but you can also head over after the race briefing and guest speaker — they’ll be open until 7:30 PM on Friday.
It’s a great opportunity to grab any last-minute race-day items or make a purchase before race morning.
7:55 AM — 50K Start
8:00 AM — 100K & 100 Mile Start
8:00 PM — 50 Mile Start
8:00 AM — 10 Mile & 20 Mile Start
4:00 PM — All races conclude
Speaker
Ethan Coffey has been a staple of the Knoxville running scene for more than 15 years, winning the Knoxville Track Club Grand Prix five times between 2012 and 2018. He won the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon in 2015 with a time of 2:22:58 and finished second in 2014 and 2018. He went on to win the CHKM two additional times in 2021 and 2022, becoming the only male three-time champion in the event’s history.
He was inducted into the Knoxville Track Club Hall of Fame in 2019. Nationally, Ethan has competed at the USA Road Championships at distances ranging from 10K to 50K, winning the national 50K title in 2014 with a personal best of 2:53:32. He ran a marathon personal best of 2:19:34 at the 2018 California International Marathon, narrowly missing the Olympic Trials qualifying standard of 2:19:00.
In ultra-distance racing, he completed the Badwater 135 in 2023 and has finished a wide range of events including the JFK 50 Mile, Badwater Salton Sea, No Business 100, Black Canyon 100K, and the Javelina Jundred 100 Mile. Collegiately, he competed for Carnegie Mellon University and currently works as a mechanical engineer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Ethan and The Long Run have also been long-time supporters of The Pistol Ultra, generously contributing countless volunteer hours to support runners as they pass through the Start/Finish area. We are deeply grateful for The Long Run’s continued support. They are located in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Rules
No alcoholic beverages are permitted anywhere on the Springbrook Pool Center grounds at any time. Local municipalities and race permits prohibit alcoholic beverages and containers anywhere on the course or at aid stations, including empty containers placed in trash. Full compliance is required for the event permit to remain valid.
Firearms are not permitted anywhere on the Springbrook Pool Center grounds, except for the official starter pistol used by race staff. This rule is mandated by city regulations and is strictly enforced.
Aid stations and warming areas are reserved exclusively for registered runners, their currently active pacer, and race volunteers or staff. Spectators and crew must remain outside these areas to prevent congestion and ensure runners have unobstructed access to supplies and warmth.
See course maps for exact locations and distances.
The official Pistol routes are marked with signage and colored pavement markings:
Only registered runners and official pacers are entitled to participate or receive race support. Non-registered participants (“bandits”) create safety, liability, and fairness concerns and may be removed and disqualified from future events.
Each distance has a unique bib color. Bib numbers are assigned alphabetically at check-in. Specific bib numbers cannot be reserved. Double Barrel runners receive a bib for each registered distance.
Runners should select distances appropriate to their experience and training. First-time ultra runners are encouraged to consider the 10-mile or 20-mile distances.
Runners who finish their official distance may continue running or pace others only after completing official finish procedures and removing their bib.
Aid stations provide standard ultra nutrition and hot foods overnight. Runners requiring specialty items must supply their own.
Distance changes are allowed before registration closes or during check-in, subject to payment of any price difference. Awards are not guaranteed after published deadlines.
Distance changes are not allowed after a race has started.
Double Barrel runners must register for the combined option and start both races at official times. Direct continuation from one race into another is not permitted.
Runners must drop only at Start/Finish and notify the timing official immediately. Failure to report a DNF may result in unnecessary emergency searches.
Drop bags and self-support areas are available near Start/Finish. Space is first-come, first-served. Valuables should be secured in vehicles.
All runners must pass through the finisher chute and report to awards, even if dropping.
Headphones are discouraged but allowed if runners remain aware of surroundings.
The race is not responsible for retrieving or mailing forgotten items.
Runners must start at official times as required by USATF.
Leaving and re-entering the course or using transportation before finishing is prohibited.
The trail is lit, but runners must carry personal lights and reflective gear at night.
Littering is prohibited and subject to disqualification.
All times are Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
Basic first aid is available at aid stations and Start/Finish. Runners are responsible for their own medical needs.
Course monitors may patrol overnight on bicycles.
Pacers must wear pacer bibs, remain with runners, and provide only mental support. Pacers can sign up for free at https://www.pistolultra.com/. Pacers don’t get any race swag or shirts, these are only for runners support.
Parking locations are designated; vehicles must be removed by Sunday evening.
Minors must have guardians present and signed waivers.
Refund and transfer policies are posted on RunSignup and agreed to during registration.
Restrooms and portable toilets are available at Start/Finish and select course locations.
Timing mats record laps and Times and results will be posted online, You must cross all mats on the course on each loop.
One canopy per runner, no generators, no stakes, no camping, Tents must be in the designated spot. No Camping overnight, it is against the City of Alcoa Rules and if caught you will be disqualified from the race.
Located at Springbrook Pool Center, 636 Vose Rd, Alcoa, TN.
Start times for race weekend begin on Saturday, The 50K race will begin at 7:55 AM EDT, followed by the 100K and 100-mile races at 8:00 AM EDT, with equal starting positions provided for all genders in each event. In the evening, the 50-mile race will officially start at 8:00 PM EDT. On Sunday, March 15, 2026, both the 20-mile and 10-mile races will start at 8:00 AM EDT.
All runners must be off course by 4:00 PM Sunday.
Do not fold or damage bib chips; results are based on gun time.
Course is mostly paved but may be icy, muddy, or flooded.
Available at aid stations; runners should carry bottles. Gatorade will be available during the weekend.
Conditions may range from freezing to warm and rainy.
Runners must shelter during dangerous conditions.
Race Director decisions are final.
Gear List & Bibs
All runners must carry the following mandatory items for the entire duration of the race.
These requirements are non-negotiable.
The following items are strongly recommended. You may choose to carry them, keep them in your drop bag, or have them available with crew (if applicable):
If you must withdraw from the race:
Food Trucks
🍽️ Food Truck Schedule – The Pistol Ultra
Saturday, March 14
🧇 Waffley Good
⏰ 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday, March 15
☕ The Best Coffee TN
⏰ 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
On Sunday, ultra-distance participants may choose from hot or cold coffee or tea, along with breakfast options including an Egg & Cheese Croissant or a Sausage, Egg & Cheese Burrito.
If you miss this window or choose not to use your ticket, we always have great aid station food available at The Long Run Aid Station if these times don’t work for you.
All other guests are welcome to purchase items from their full menu at https://bestcoffeetn.com/menu
Awards & Runner Swag
100M & 100K Finishers
Finishers in the 100-mile and 100K events will receive a buckle upon completion of their race.
Custom Finisher Medal
Every runner who completes their event will receive a unique, custom-designed finisher’s medal.
Top 3 Overall Awards
Awards will be presented to the top three overall male and female finishers in each event.
Masters Awards (40+)
Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female Masters finishers (age 40 and over) in each event.
Grand Masters Awards (50+)
Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female Grand Masters finishers (age 50 and over) in each event.
Runner Swag
All participants will receive a Rabbit short-sleeve shirt, while supplies and sizes last.
Ultra Runner Meal Ticket
Runners in the 100M, 100K, 50M, and 50K events will receive a meal ticket on their bib to redeem at the food truck during operating hours. If the food truck has closed, food will still be available at the main aid station hosted by The Long Run.
Aid Stations
Aid stations and warming areas are reserved for registered runners, their currently active pacer, and race volunteers or support staff only. All others are asked to kindly avoid these runner-designated areas so that participants have full, safe, and unobstructed access to supplies and warming facilities. Thank you for helping us keep our runners the top priority.
Aid Station Locations:
For exact locations and distances, please refer to the overall and course maps.
There are numerous side trails within the trail system; however, the official Pistol routes will be clearly marked with signage and distance-specific colored pavement markings, duct tape, and arrows. Green/Lime markings indicate metric courses, and Orange markings indicate imperial courses.
RaceJoy
We’re excited to offer RaceJoy by RunSignup, an interactive GPS-based tracking app that enhances the race experience for both participants and spectators.
RaceJoy allows runners to be tracked in real time and provides spectators with live updates, progress alerts, and even the ability to send cheers during the race.
While using RaceJoy is completely optional, we encourage you to consider it — it adds a fun and interactive element to race day!
To learn more and get set up:
100M, 50M, 20M & 10M
100K & 50K
The Metric Course at The Pistol Ultra is a 10.35-mile loop designed for endurance, speed, and strategy. This course combines gentle rolling hills, scenic greenways, and well-maintained paved paths, providing a fast, runnable experience while keeping runners engaged. Please review the course maps in advance so you are familiar with the loop before race day they are interactive so you can follow it.
Course Maps:
Click here to view the Metric PlotARoute course map
Click here to view the Metric Strava course map
Number of Loops by Distance:
With well-stocked aid stations, enthusiastic volunteers, and a motivating race atmosphere, the Metric Course delivers an unforgettable ultra-running experience. Whether you are tackling your first ultra or aiming for a personal best, this course is designed to test your endurance and reward your grit.
Aid stations and warming areas are reserved exclusively for registered runners, their active pacers, and race volunteers or support staff. Spectators and non-participating individuals are asked to avoid these areas to ensure runners have safe and unobstructed access to supplies and support. Thank you for helping us keep the runners first.
While the trail system includes numerous side trails, the official Pistol routes are clearly marked with:
Please stay on the designated route, follow all markings, and enjoy the challenge of The Pistol Metric Course.
Where Do I Park
Please review the parking instructions carefully and park only in the designated locations listed below. Click Here for the Detailed Google Map
Important Parking Notes
Option 1:
Springbrook Pool
636 Vose Rd, Alcoa, TN
(35.79349212240719, -83.97661496339691)
Option 2:
(35.79129483349429, -83.97678711755474)
Option 1:
Alcoa Elementary School
1200 Springbrook Rd, Alcoa, TN 37701
(35.792001258304154, -83.9743567161134)
Option 2:
(35.79129483349429, -83.97678711755474)
Option 1 (Saturday Only):
Alcoa United Methodist Church
617 Gilbert St, Alcoa, TN 37701
(35.795024, -83.978007)
Option 2:
Alcoa Elementary School
1200 Springbrook Rd, Alcoa, TN 37701
(35.792001258304154, -83.9743567161134)
Option 1:
Alcoa Elementary School
1200 Springbrook Rd, Alcoa, TN 37701
(35.792001258304154, -83.9743567161134)
Option 2:
Alcoa High School & Middle School
1325 Springbrook Rd, Alcoa, TN 37701
(35.79167612594716, -83.97786987924086)
Runner self-support tents/canopies
Runner Set-Up Area Guidelines
A designated area near the start/finish will be available for runners to set up their own tables, canopies, and self-supported warming stations. Please refer to the parking map for the exact location. Click Here To see that location
⛺ Canopy Limit: One 10’x10’ maximum canopy per registered runner
❌ No generators allowed
🔌 No access to electrical outlets
📅 Setup begins at 12:00 PM EDT on Friday — first-come, first-served
⚠️ Do not drive stakes into the ground – buried utilities are present
🧹 You must be completely packed up by 5:00 PM EDT on Sunday
🚫 Absolutely no personal camping tents allowed during the weekend – this is a city of Alcoa restriction
Please be respectful of the space.
Clean up your area completely before leaving — we’ve unfortunately had issues in the past with damaged pop-ups and trash left behind.
Please bring all trash to the Start/Finish area and dispose of it in the dumpsters provided, or take it with you when you leave.
Let’s all do our part to keep this venue clean, safe, and in good standing for future events. Thank you for your cooperation!
RRCA Championships
The Pistol Ultra 50K Named 2026 RRCA Tennessee Ultra Championship
We are proud to announce that the 2026 Pistol 50K has been officially designated as the 2026 RRCA Tennessee Ultra Championship by the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA).
This designation reflects the quality of our event, the strength of our competitive field, and the incredible trail and ultra running community that supports it.
We are grateful to the RRCA for this honor and for their continued support of race directors, clubs, volunteers, and runners nationwide.
A sincere thank you to our volunteers, partners, sponsors, and runners who make this event possible year after year. We look forward to welcoming a deep, competitive field and celebrating an outstanding day of racing at the 2026 RRCA Tennessee Ultra Championship at The Pistol Ultra.
Click here to learn more about RRCA
Weather
Weather
In mid-March in Alcoa, TN, runners in The Pistol Ultra can typically expect cool to mild spring weather with daytime highs often in the upper 50s to low 60s °F and nighttime lows around 40 °F — though early mornings could still feel quite chilly on the course. Precipitation is fairly common this time of year, with March being one of the wetter months, so rain showers are possible and the ground may be slick or muddy in places where water may puddle. Cloud cover and breezes are normal too, so conditions can feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
For clothing and gear preparation, runners should plan to dress in layers that can be adjusted as temperatures warm throughout the race. A moisture-wicking base layer and light long-sleeve shirt or lightweight jacket are good starts, with a windproof or water-resistant outer layer if rain is in the forecast. Leggings or running tights are advisable until the sun warms things up, and many runners like gloves or a buff for early cold starts. Since conditions can change, packing a lightweight packable jacket and extra socks can help runners stay comfortable and dry if it starts to rain or cool down.
Thank You
Thank You
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible medical staff — especially Dr. Ansel Peacock — as well as Knoxville Spine & Sports and Onward Physical Therapy for the outstanding care and support you provide to our runners and walkers. Your presence gives our participants confidence and peace of mind, and we are truly grateful for your dedication.
A huge thank you goes out to all of our volunteers who make this event possible. Without you, this event simply could not happen. It takes an enormous amount of time, energy, and heart to support each runner and walker, and you generously give your own time to be there for others. We are endlessly thankful for each of you.
We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to all of our amazing sponsors who help make this event possible:
City of Alcoa, City of Maryville, Maryville-Alcoa Parks & Recreation, Greater Smokies Region Blount County Partnership, HOKA, Injinji, RRCA, Gatorade, Tailwind, The Long Run, Knoxville Track Club, Mayfield Dairy Farms, Little River Trading, Knoxville Spine & Sports, Onward Physical Therapy, Salty Britches, LeConte Realty, LB Endurance Lab, Hilton Knoxville Airport, Bear Butt Wipes, and Vespa.
Your support, generosity, and belief in this event mean more than words can express. Thank you all for being such an important part of our community and helping make this event special year after year.
Final Word
We just want to say thank you for signing up to run the The Pistol in 2026.
If at any time you have any questions for us or you would like to provide feedback, please contact us directly at pistolultra@gmail.com. Do not hesitate to ask questions. We are always happy to hear from you!
See you in March!!!